Insect Life Cycle: Periodic Cicade (1975)

The film explores the fascinating life cycle of the periodical cicada, which spans 17 years underground before emerging en masse. Their survival strategy includes synchronized emergence to overwhelm predators, a long developmental phase hidden from threats, and a unique mating ritual. The documentary highlights the cicadas' impressive numbers, their role in the ecosystem, and the natural pruning effect they have on trees during their lifecycle. Keywords cicada, life cycle, emergence, predators, mating, ecosystem, survival, brood, transformation, natural pruning